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AWWA Water Matters Fly-In: A Crucial Dialogue on Water Policy

On April 14, 2026, over 195 water professionals convened in Washington, D.C., for the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Water Matters Fly-In. This significant two-day event aimed to emphasize pressing water infrastructure needs and to bring crucial legislative priorities to the attention of Congress.

Addressing Infrastructure Needs

Central to the discussions at the Fly-In was the urgent appeal for infrastructure funding. AWWA delegates engaged with congressional representatives and their teams, focusing on the critical necessity of reauthorizing and fully funding the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds. The accumulation of aging infrastructure across the nation has escalated the urgency for financial resources to help communities modernize water systems and ensure affordability for households nationwide.

Prominent among the conversations was the need for the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act, which is envisioned to allocate necessary investment towards deteriorating water infrastructure while maintaining affordability for consumers.

Tackling PFAS Liability Issues

Another significant issue raised during the Fly-In was the need for legislation concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Delegates advocated for the advancement of the Water Systems PFAS Liability Act (H.R. 1267). This bipartisan legislation seeks to hold PFAS manufacturers accountable for cleanup costs, which presently fall heavily on local water utilities and their ratepayers. Delegating these responsibilities to the manufacturers promotes fairness and responsibility in addressing this critical environmental concern.

Enhancing Cybersecurity and Resilience

As technology becomes increasingly integrated into water management systems, cybersecurity emerged as a priority for delegates at the Fly-In. They urged legislators to support a comprehensive suite of bipartisan legislation aimed at fortifying the security, resilience, and sustainability of the nation’s water systems. The ongoing cyber threats to critical infrastructure prompt an urgent call for preventive measures that safeguard water utilities against potential incursions.

Ensuring Water Affordability

Affordability continues to be a pressing issue affecting communities across the United States. Delegates expressed their support for the LIHWAP Establishment Act (H.R. 4733), which aims to provide resources that enable water systems to invest in vital infrastructure upgrades while ensuring that water services remain affordable for struggling families. This act addresses the dual challenge of improving service while maintaining reasonable costs for consumers.

Key Findings from AWWA's New Report

The discussions at the Fly-In coincided with the release of a new AWWA report, titled Beyond the Replacement Era: Balancing Compounding Infrastructure Needs with Household Affordability. This report underscores the staggering investment requirement of between $2.1 trillion and $2.4 trillion over the next 25 years to effectively address the United States drinking water infrastructure and other paramount needs. The findings highlight the necessity for collaboration between federal and local governments in securing funding and creating a sustainable water future.

The Role of AWWA

Founded in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing water management and treatment practices. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA plays a pivotal role in advocating for effective solutions that prioritize public health, environmental protection, and economic stability.

In conclusion, the AWWA Water Matters Fly-In served as a vital platform for water leaders to engage directly with policymakers on critical national and local water issues. Federal partnerships will be crucial as communities work to invest in resilient infrastructure, tackle emerging risks like PFAS and cybersecurity, and ensure affordable water service for all citizens.